Topical Treatment for Scarring and Non-Scarring Alopecia: An Overview of the Current Evidence

May 2021 in “ Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology ”

Camila O. Cardoso, Seila Tolentino, Taís Gratieri, Marcílio Cunha-Filho, Renata Fonseca Vianna Lopez

minoxidil finasteride topical corticosteroids calcineurin inhibitors nanoparticles iontophoresis sonophoresis microneedling scarring alopecia non-scarring alopecia Rogaine Propecia

TLDR Minoxidil and finasteride are the best for non-scarring hair loss; more research is needed for scarring hair loss treatments.

The document "Topical Treatment for Scarring and Non-Scarring Alopecia: An Overview of the Current Evidence" reviews the effectiveness of various topical treatments for alopecia. Minoxidil and finasteride are the most effective treatments for non-scarring alopecia, with minoxidil increasing hair growth by 40% in 3-6 months. For scarring alopecia, topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors show promise, but more research is needed. The paper also discusses the use of nanoparticles in topical treatments, which can reduce irritant potential, control drug release, and increase drug penetration. Techniques like iontophoresis, sonophoresis, and microneedling are also mentioned as potential strategies for enhancing drug delivery. The document concludes by emphasizing the need for more clinical studies to determine the effectiveness and safety of these new therapeutic modalities for the treatment of hair loss.

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